Subia Azmat, Parent Village Manager
In November, we were facing one of the hardest moments since Parent Village began. We’ve had bumps along the way but this was a major crunch point.
Funding had run out, we were drawing on our small reserves to keep the service open from September and for the first time, we had to consider the possibility of pausing Parent Village. For the families who rely on weekly sessions, trusted support and a sense of belonging, that uncertainty was deeply worrying.
Then, in the final hours, before the Christmas holidays approached, everything changed.
Funding arrived when it mattered most
We are incredibly relieved and grateful to share that £20,000 has been awarded to Parent Village by The National Lottery Community Fund, made possible by National Lottery players. This vital funding secures Parent Village for the next 12 months, allowing us to continue supporting families across West Berkshire without interruption.
We are also proud to announce that the West Berkshire National Education Union has confirmed an additional £2,000 funding, supporting Parent Village into 2026. Together, these commitments have given us breathing space, stability and renewed confidence at a moment when we needed it most.
The Educafe team want to express sincere thanks to National Lottery players and the NEU for believing in Parent Village and stepping in at a critical time. Your support has had an immediate and tangible impact on local families.
Why Parent Village matters
Parent Village exists to make sure no parent feels alone during early parenthood. Through weekly, in-person sessions, we offer:
- – A welcoming, non-judgemental space for parents and babies
- – Peer support and shared experience
- – Access to trusted information and local services
- – Strong community connections that reduce isolation
Each year, Parent Village delivers around 40 sessions, works with around 20 partner organisations and businesses to support our growing community of parents, babies and volunteers.
Our impact in real terms
Because of Parent Village:
- – Parents who were previously isolated now have regular, trusted social contact and new friends
- – Families access early support, reducing pressure on stretched statutory services
- – Parents report improved confidence, wellbeing and mental health
- – Babies benefit from stronger attachment and social development through supported play
- – Local early years businesses and practitioners have a space where they can connect with families
Our sessions create a preventative, early-intervention space where small moments of support can make a lasting difference for whole families.
What parents tell us
The true impact of Parent Village is best reflected in the voices of the parents who attend:
These experiences are why Parent Village matters and why protecting its future is so important.
Celebrating our community of supporters
Parent Village would not exist without the people who stand alongside us. We want to thank our Changemakers and Friends of Educafe who support our work through advocacy, volunteering, donations and ongoing encouragement. It’s your contributions that gave us the reserves to continue when funding had run out.
Their belief in what we do helps us keep showing up for families week after week.
Looking beyond one year
While this funding secures Parent Village in the short term, our ambition is to create long-term stability. One year of certainty gives us time, but sustainable funding allows us to plan ahead, grow responsibly and respond to the needs of families.
We are now seeking long-term sponsors and partners who care about young families and young people in West Berkshire. Local businesses and individuals can play a vital role in ensuring Parent Village continues not just to survive, but to thrive.
We are looking for community-minded local businesses who have space to host local meet-ups and gatherings for our audiences outside of a Wednesday. Would you like to host a monthly meet-up? Drop us a line.
How you can support Parent Village
There are many ways to help secure the future of Parent Village:
- – Become a long-term sponsor or corporate partner
- – Join as a Friend of Educafe through regular giving
- – Make a one-off donation to support sessions and resources
- – Share our story within your local networks
Every conversation, connection and contribution helps build a stronger safety net for families and future generations.
Thank you for being part of the village
Parent Village is more than a project. It is a community built on trust, care and connection. Thanks to National Lottery players, the NEU and our wider network of supporters, that community continues.
With the support of our local families, businesses and partners, we hope to secure Parent Village for many years to come.
